Top 5 Best Spots for Food and Drinks in Sausalito Near My Photography Studio
Often when clients join us in our Sausalito Studio for new headshots, brand photos or a product shoot, they want to enjoy a little extra time in this charming little Marin County town by the Bay. After we wrap, they’re looking for the best spots to grab a bite to eat, pick up a good cup of coffee, soak in the best Bay views or enjoy a cocktail to “cheers” to their shoot.
Whether you’re joining us in the studio for a shoot, or just swinging by Sausalito for a visit, here are a few of my favorite spots.
1. Fish.
Just a few blocks away from the studio, Fish. is tucked back by the Bay in a marina and if the name wasn’t clear enough, you can expect some of the best fish in the area.
It’s a total gem for an al fresco lunch, with a bunch of great outdoor picnic table seating where you can watch sailboats cruise by. The seafood is as fresh as it gets with favorites like fish and chips, poke and fish tacos paired with a crisp glass of white wine or an Arnold Palmer. Though it’s a causal counter service spot, it’s a little bit of a splurge that’s well worth it for the quality and views.
It’s a bit off the beaten path, so you’ll definitely need to know where you’re going! On weekends, plan for long lines at the counter.
2. Joinery
Beer hall, rotisserie, epic salads and sides on the water. What more could you want?
Joinery doubles as my go-to lunch delivery while in the studio and my favorite spot to hang with friends after a hike. This cozy, communal space has an awesome beer and wine selection if you’re just looking for a drink with a view of the Sausalito waterfront, and the food is incredible too.
A few personal favorites: fattoush salad, fries, falafel sandwich, marinated beets and guac.
Another counter service spot, the line and service are typically speedy. The indoor space is sprawling with big open doors for a Bay breeze and plenty of outdoor picnic tables right on the water, too.
3. Equator Coffees
Our favorite coffee spot in Marin County, and bonus: it’s woman-owned, too! The Sausalito location (formerly Cibo), has a great food menu and pastries, too. We love the Good Morning muffins (and they’re gluten free!), breakfast burrito and veggie frittata sandwich.
Pop into Karl the Store next door for some shopping and tasteful Sausalito swag!
4. Sushi Ran
An institution for Japanese food and serving up some of the best sushi in the Bay Area since 1987, Sushi Ran sits on charming Caledonia Street, tucked off the main drag with a more local feel. While the restaurant can book up early for dinner reservations, we recommend swinging by the wine bar side for walk-ins.
5. Driver’s Market & Deli
This neighborhood market is also tucked away on Caledonia Street with a tasty deli counter that’s a favorite spot to grab a bite for lunch, including a few breakfast items. There’s plenty of pre-packaged and prepared items ready to go, or you can custom order from their menu full of salads, paninis, wraps, rice bowls and smoothies/juices.
My favorite: the spicy tuna wrap. If you’re en route to a picnic on the beach or nearby Dunphy Park, they have a great selection of wine, beer, cheeses and snacks too. On busy days, we love the order-ahead option online, too. Just looking for a sweet treat? Check out their soft serve window.
Honorable mention:
Bar Bocce - Right on Bridgeway, great for a beer or pizza on the Bay
Golden Gate Market - A favorite for sidewalk coffee and watching cyclists cruise by
Le Garage - A French spot tucked in a marina—you can’t go wrong with frites and a glass of wine
Sandrino Pizza & Vino - Al fresco ‘za or box of pizza to go on Caledonia Street
The Trident - On the touristy side right, The Trident is on the water with great views of SF and quite the slice of Sausalito history. Rumor has it the tequila sunrise was created for the Rolling Stones’ party kicking off their 1972 tour. Jerry Garcia was a regular, along with Janis Joplin, who had her very own table.
Poggio Trattoria - Italian with a classic vibe (think: white tablecloths), with great sidewalk seating and a bustling bar. Order the house negroni, made by bartender “Tony Negroni.”
Enjoy checking out a few of our favorite spots in Sausalito, right down the road from our photo studio! And if you’re looking to book fresh headshots, a brand shoot or catpure product photos in Marin County, drop us a line and we’ll share packages!
